What is Hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A is a vaccine-preventable, communicable disease of the liver caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV).

How Is Hepatitis A Transmitted?

• Fecal-Oral Route: Consuming food or water contaminated with fecal matter from an infected person.
• Direct Contact: Close personal contact with an infected person, such as through sexual activity or handling items contaminated with fecal matter.
• Contaminated Surfaces: Touching surfaces or objects that have been contaminated with the virus and then touching the mouth or face.
• Unhygienic Practices: Poor sanitation and hygiene, especially in areas with inadequate sanitation facilities.

It’s important to practice good hand hygiene and ensure proper sanitation to prevent the spread of Hepatitis A.

Homeless Encampments

Hepatitis A outbreaks frequently occur in homeless encampments. This is often due to unsanitary conditions, injection drug use, and the close living quarters of infected individuals.

Prevention

The best way to prevent hepatitis A infection is to get vaccinated.

• Hep A Vaccination
• Hand Washing
• Washing hands before eating